A Labor of Love, A Statewide Honor: Scenic Ohio Award for Old Burying Ground
- director1186
- Jul 30
- 2 min read
We are excited to share that the Old Burying Ground, also known as Pioneer Cemetery, has received the esteemed 2025 Scenic Ohio Award! This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of a devoted group of volunteers who have been instrumental in the Old Burying Grounds Preservation Project. Their efforts have truly made a difference!
This honor recognizes communities, organizations, and individuals who contribute to the preservation of Ohio's scenic beauty, historical character, and cultural landscapes. This year, Scenic Ohio focused on the vital work being done at our state’s cemeteries, and we are proud to say that the Old Burying Ground was selected from over 100 nominees as one of just seven honored cemeteries!
Established in 1799 by General Duncan McArthur, our cemetery is home to nearly 900 burials—including veterans from the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and World War II—with the earliest birth year recorded in 1760.
Since 2013, the Old Burying Ground Preservation Project has held over 100 volunteer sessions, committing more than 1,800 hours to restore and maintain this important site. In 2025, they will continue their restoration efforts with plans for cleaning, repairing, and straightening gravestones, as well as the repair of over 50 above-ground tombs.
In the words of John King from the Old Burying Ground Preservation Project, “Learning of the recognition of our efforts to preserve the Old Burying Ground in Greenfield, Ohio, came as a pleasant surprise. As cemetery volunteers know, it is a labor of love."
Thank you to all of the volunteers and supporters for making this recognition possible! Let’s continue to honor our community’s rich heritage together!
Newsletter from Scenic Ohio:
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